Press Room

For Immediate Release

Oregon Continues Fragile Wolf Recovery Through 2019

April 15

State breaks 4 year streak of wolf killing

Today, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife released the annual 2019 wolf report. According to the report, the number of known wolves in the state grew to 158 in 22 packs. The agency identified only one additional pack in Western Oregon. Of note, in 2019 the state killed no wolves for the first time since 2014, and the number of confirmed depredations decreased by 43%.

Oregon's wolves, captured 2019-2020 on trailcam. Video available for media use upon request.

"Wolf killing went down, livestock conflicts decreased, and Oregon’s wolf population grew. This is good news, and more strong evidence that focusing on non-lethal measures to reduce wolf-livestock conflict works," said Oregon Wild Wildlife Program Coordinator Danielle Moser.

"158 known wolves in the state is a reason to celebrate, but we should always remember there is habitat to support more than 1450 of these iconic animals, and our current count represents a tiny fraction of what once lived here,” said Oregon Wild Conservation Director Steve Pedery. “Oregon needs a cautious, science-based approach to these animals that minimizes killing, supports responsible livestock operations, and holds poachers accountable."